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The facts
The Edmonton Elks secured a narrow 27-25 victory against the Saskatchewan Roughriders on Saturday. This win is pivotal for the Elks’ playoff hopes, following two consecutive last-minute losses. The team displayed notable determination and skill, especially in the fourth quarter.
Justin Rankin significantly contributed by scoring two crucial touchdowns.
Tribute to late owner and team spirit
This game transcended the pursuit of a playoff spot; it served as a tribute to the team’s late owner, Larry Thompson, who died due to surgery complications shortly before the match.
The Elks honored him with a moment of silence and painted tributes in the end zones, showcasing their deep respect and admiration for their leader. Coach Mark Kilam highlighted the pride he felt in his team’s performance, noting the unity and determination demonstrated throughout the game.
Key moments from the game
The match opened with the Elks securing a single point through a punting effort, setting the stage for a tense showdown. Saskatchewan’s quarterback Trevor Harris faced difficulties early, throwing two interceptions on the Roughriders’ first drive.
Although these opportunities arose, the Elks were unable to capitalize immediately. It was not until the second quarter that Vincent Blanchard successfully kicked a 47-yard field goal, marking Edmonton’s first points of the game.
As the first half continued, the Elks increased their lead with a touchdown from backup quarterback Cole Snyder.
This score followed a significant 47-yard pass from Cody Fajardo to Kaion Julien-Grant. The Roughriders managed to respond with a field goal before halftime, leaving them trailing 11-3.
The facts
In the third quarter, the Roughriders made a significant move by narrowing the score gap.
A.J. Ouellette scored a five-yard rushing touchdown. Their attempt for a two-point conversion, however, was unsuccessful. Following this, Kosi Onyeka recovered a fumble, allowing Saskatchewan to secure a 30-yard field goal and briefly take the lead.
The consequences
The Elks responded quickly, regaining their momentum with a remarkable 37-yard touchdown run by Rankin. This play highlighted his skill and determination on the field, shifting the game’s dynamic once again.
Key moments and intense finish
The Elks’ offense showcased its strength with a notable 44-yard pass to Odieu Hiliare. This play set up Rankin’s second touchdown, as he powered through defenders to score from five yards. Coach Kilam commended Rankin’s performance, highlighting a critical moment where he evaded multiple tackles, underscoring his role within the team’s offense.
As the game progressed, the Roughriders remained resilient, scoring a touchdown via Tommy Nield. The Elks answered back with a 30-yard field goal from Blanchard. Yet Saskatchewan aimed to equalize, advancing to the one-yard line in the final seconds. They managed to score again with Tommy Stevens, but their attempt at a two-point conversion failed, extinguishing their hopes of tying the game.
Looking ahead
The Elks secured a crucial victory, improving their record to 6-9 and ending a two-game losing streak. This win keeps their playoff hopes alive. To advance to the post-season, they must win their remaining three games and hope for favorable outcomes in other matches. Meanwhile, the Roughriders, now at 10-4, face the challenge of regrouping after experiencing back-to-back losses for the first time this season.
This game highlighted the Elks’ resilience and served as a tribute to a cherished figure within the organization. With the season nearing its conclusion, the Elks aim to build on their momentum as they prepare for their next matchup against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
